Mercedes-Benz to debut E300 and E400 hybrids in 2012

Hybrid vehicles are like the happy middle between a gasoline powered vehicle and an electric vehicle. In a way one could even consider a hybrid a “transition” vehicle one would buy before making the leap into a full electric vehicle. Either way, if hybrids are your thing or if you’re thinking about getting one, Mercedes-Benz has announced that they will be unveiling two new hybrids at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show in January.

One will be the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E400 which will be a gasoline-electric hybrid, while the other will be the Mercedes-Benz E300 Bluetec Hybrid that will be a combination of diesel and electric. Both are expected to come with the 7G-Tronic transmission system along with 0.8-kWh lithium-ion batteries.

The E300 will feature a total of 204hp and with the electric motor contributing an additional 27hp. According to the carmaker, the E300 will be able to go from 0-60mph n 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 150mph. The E400 on the other hand will be more powerful with a total of 306hp with an additional 27hp from the same electric motor. It claims to be able to go from 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds but is electronically limited to a stop speed of 130mph.

Both models are expected to see a launch in Europe early next year with plans to launch them in China and Japan as well.